
Rodrick Samuels on The Silent Work, Modern Beauty Education and Why Empathy Wins
MODERN SALON sat down with Samuels to discuss the book, beauty education, mentorship and the habits that help beauty professionals thrive.
Across the globe, beauty is defined differently by various cultures. How beauty is taught in international cosmetology schools is very different as well! We talk to Rosemary Costa, Pivot Point International Academy salon essentials division manager for Trinidad and Tobago, about what it?s like to be a beauty school student in the southern Caribbean.

Across the globe, beauty is defined differently by various cultures. How beauty is taught in international cosmetology schools is very different as well! We talk to Rosemary Costa, Pivot Point International Academy salon essentials division manager for Trinidad and Tobago, about what it?s like to be a beauty school student in the southern Caribbean.
Q. How is beauty defined in Trinidad and Tobago?
A. Just as in the US, both men and women are concerned with appearance. Trinidad and Tobago hosts a diversity of many different cultures all coming together, so the overall appearance of most Trinidadians is quite exotic. In advertising and on TV, it's a combination of beauty and sex appeal. As Trinidad is the birthplace of Calypso music, there are many festivals and ceremonies throughout the year. During carnival time, you tend to see a lot more fancy updos and more color in fashion including blues, pinks, yellows and greens.
Q. How much does it cost to attend cosmetology school?
A. It costs $12,000, depending on your area of study.
Q. Upon graduation, what are professionals licensed to practice?
A. Students can choose to focus on esthetics or cosmetology. Right now, keratin treatments and hair extensions are both popular services requested in the salon. These services are taught in our schools for cosmetology students. Though educational trade shows are not available here, we do offer workshops with manufacturers from brands we distribute.
Q. Is it difficult to find employment upon graduation?
A. Jobs are quite easy to find, because the students who are graduating are far better qualified than any other institution currently available here in Trinidad. You need to be well put together, though—being sure to look the part. You also have to have a very vibrant personality and be willing and able to work long, hard hours.

MODERN SALON sat down with Samuels to discuss the book, beauty education, mentorship and the habits that help beauty professionals thrive.

"The mistake people make is treating AI like a vending machine instead of a personal assistant." Digital marketing expert Scott Moon shares how beauty professionals can use AI while staying authentic

Real-world advice on creativity, consultations, color, burnout, business, boundaries, inclusivity, client care, and career growth from educators and industry experts.

Today's clients are hearing more about longevity, biohacking, inflammation, and healthy aging than ever before. This article explores the science and language behind the skin longevity movement, and what it could mean for client consultations, treatment recommendations, and professional credibility.

Licensed to Thrive, Anna Manukyan's all-in-one beauty career and financial masterclass, is being gifted to professionals who enroll in L'Oreal LEVEL Rewards for a limited time.

From breaking free of external validation to creating joy-based goals, discover a more sustainable and fulfilling path to success.

A full day of education for hairstylists and salon pros focused on pricing, personal branding, client experience, social media, and long-term career growth.

From working backstage at multiple Paris Fashion Week shows to collaborating on four creative collections and expanding her international stage work, Michelle Bowden has had an incredible year of growth. Here, we break down her approach that drove her momentum, offering a framework for stylists looking to elevate their own careers.

This marks Ulta Beauty’s first scholarship partnership with Beauty Changes Lives, building on years of enthusiastic support for the organization and its mission.

Locally owned Great Clips salons offer a wide variety of career opportunities, competitive compensation, supportive salon teams and opportunities to grow your skills, both technically and professionally.
Sponsored by Great Clips

Salon suite consultant Karen Kaminski explains why cheap salon suite rent can destabilize the salon suite business model and why value-based pricing may be a smarter strategy.

These stylists practice hairdresser magic, transforming clients into unicorns, mermaids, rainbows and living works of art.

Keratin Complex is taking education on the road in 2026 with the launch of KC on Tour, a live event series featuring industry icon and salon business coach Tabatha Coffey.

Modern professionalism is evolving beyond hard skills. Technical training is essential but about 85 percent of job success comes from soft skills. In a world where AI and automation are increasing, human connection becomes more valuable, not less.

In his new book "The Creative Mastermind," a writer and creative executive behind brands such as "Top Chef," "Fear Factor," and "Real Housewives," shares his insider knowledge for navigating today's chaotic content landscape.

Personalization is no longer just the cherry on top; it’s the whole sundae. If clients don’t feel like you designed and personalized the experience just for them, they’ll find a salon that does.

Ulta Beauty is always innovating to meet professionals where they are. Amazing transformations happened at The Salon at Ulta Beauty in 2025, and Ulta Beauty artistry and education will be everywhere you want to go in the year ahead. Come see all The Salon at Ulta Beauty has planned for you in 2026!
Sponsored by Ulta Beauty